Gourds and Stone Axes

CHAPTER 4

Time never stood still in the small village of Tarampura, one in a chain along the Great Baliem Valley. This was the home the ornamental Dani. Marta Springer knew her link of the chain all too well. Two years ago next month, she reminded herself, shivering at the repulsive thought. She shook her head trying to escape sadness as she set out to inspect the airfield. I want to make sure it is neat for the new guy. Viewing the landing strip so critically brought back painful memories.

“This is the best way to remember Raymond,” she had said two years before, upon return after burying her late husband. “He had always spoken of making a runway near the village. You know how slow the boats are.” She reminded Jason of the 25 miles from Tiom, forever by boat but only a few minutes by air.

Within weeks some of the pilots had traveled by boat, surveyed the area, and found a place that would be suitable for a runway. They had hired some men from the village who worked with stone axes to clear an outline of what would be a 25 foot by 1700 foot airstrip.

“I’d always wanted to land in your village. You have no idea how beautiful it looks nestled between the mountain and the Baliem River,” Steve had said as he and his crew spent the night.

“How long do you think it will take? I mean, I can’t believe this is all happening. I wish Raymond could be here to see his dream.” Marta had said.

“Raymond would be proud. Proud of the strip, and proud of your hard work. We should be done in about six months provided the weather holds out and the workers keep their interest,” Steve had said.

“I don’t think the Dani will be a hard sell for the idea of a landing strip. I think they’ll be eager to build a place where the aloof motorized birds could roost.” Marta had said of the comments Steve had made. They’d seen planes fly overhead, but had never touched nor seen one up close.

“Just look around. Men wearing nothing but gourds, taming the jungle growth with stone axes. It’s a sight for any anthropologist,” Marta had said.

 

Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.

Showing the New Guy Around

“Hey, John, are you awake?” Steve spoke through the closed door.

“Yeah, come in.”

“It’s almost time for prayer breakfast. Rachel and I thought you might want to sit with us, seeing how you brought a reminder of America with you. We all want to get caught up on State-side life,” said Steve.

“Well, you’ve made me feel welcome, and I appreciate it.” John got up to follow Steve.

“Good! We’ve got a busy schedule today so I hope you are ready,” said Steve.

“Any of it involve flying?” John asked.

“Actually, we have a few lessons planned,” Steve answered.

“I heard I had to go through some sort of training,” John said, hoping to sound agreeable.

“Yes, but be patient. Sometimes you may get to fly a lot, and other times depend on the availability of planes and missions. We’ll focus on showing you around and getting your papers cleared with the government. It may take awhile, but it’s survivable,” Steve encouraged.

“Sounds terrible.” John feigned horror.

“It is, believe me. But the best thing to do is sit back and learn as much as you can, read your lessons, study your Bible, and pray for patience.”

Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.

The Deep Sleep-An Excerpt from Commitment-A Novel

     

 John followed the voices and the spicy scent of food to the dining area where half of Tiom gathered.

     “You made it,” Daryl called.

     John turned briskly toward the familiar voice.

     “Come on over and meet some people, if you haven’t already,” Daryl said.

John rolled his eyes and headed toward her. “If it weren’t for Steve, I may not have made it this far. I probably would have been starving in my bed, dying for a midnight snack.”

     “Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention,” Jason spoke up from atop one of the chairs, not really needing the extra height. “Hello,” he continued tapping a serving spoon on a glass.

     Eventually, all attention was focused on him.

     “I would like to take this time to officially welcome the newest member of our roost. He flew all the way from Texas, and boy, are his arms tired,” Jason offered the familiar joke receiving only sporadic snickers.

     “Okay, I see that went over your heads. “Anyway, I’m sure that you have many questions for him, but, please, for John’s sake, give him some breathing room. He will be here long enough to update everyone on life at home.”

     “Here, here,” John said.

     Someone in the background laughed out loud.

     “Anyway, let’s make him feel welcome. So, without further ado, let’s eat some of this wonderful food. Doug, would you please lead us with a word of thanks?”

     John decided immediately he liked everyone. It was hard to really talk to Jason as he couldn’t get past a greeting. He decided it must be all the fuss of the evening and dismissed it.

     Later, burned out and grateful to be under covers, he lay his head down on the first pillow he had seen in a few days and fell into a deep sleep.



Jeffrey W. Bennett, is the author of Commitment-A Novel and other non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.